Holcim Quarry Rehab Experience

Mediterranean Quarry
Rehabilitation Manual
Learning from the Holcim Experience
INTERNATIONAL UNION FOR CONSERVATION OF NATURE
For future reference, thank you for citing this report as:
CNRS-L/AFDC/IUCN/Holcim. 2014. Mediterranean Quary Rehabilitation Manual: Learn the Holcim Experience.
This report was prepared by

CNRS-L
Dr. Carla Khater

Eng. Christine Maksoud
Ms. Rita El-Hajj
Ms. Souha Tohme
IUCN
Eng. Mufleh Al-Alaween
AFDC
Eng. Elias Chnais

With the contribution of M. Julien Viglione (EcoMed s.a.r.l) and
the support of Holcim and AFC teams.
Edited by: Rita El-Hajj

Photos credit:
Christine Maksoud
Rita El-Hajj
Mufleh Al-Alaween
Elias Chnais
Boulos Frangieh
Ziad Samaha
Mediterranean Quarry
Rehabilitation Manual
Learning from the Holcim Experience
Credits
The designation of geographical entities in this book, and the presentation of the material, do not imply the expression of any
opinion whatsoever on the part of IUCN, CNRS, AFDC, AFC and ECO-MED concerning the legal status of any country, territory,
or area, or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries.
The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of IUCN, CNRS, AFDC, AFC and ECO-MED.
IUCN and the other participating organizations do not take any responsibility for errors or omissions occurring in the translation
into Arabic of this document whose original version is in English.
This publication has been made possible in part by funding from Holcim Lebanon.
Published by:
IUCN, Gland, Switzerland
Copyright:
2015 International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources

Reproduction of this publication for educational or other non-commercial purposes is authorized
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acknowledged.
Reproduction of this publication for resale or other commercial purposes is prohibited without
prior written permission of the copyright holder.
Citation:
CNRS-L/AFDC/IUCN/Holcim. 2014. Mediterranean Quarry Rehabilitation Manual: Learn The

Holcim Experience. 74pp.
ISBN:
978-2-8317-1749-4
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.CH.2015.05.en
Cover photo:
Christine Maksoud
Layout by:
Magic Line, Jordan
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Table of Contents
I. Quarry Rehabilitation: an imPOSSIBLE mission ......................................................................................................................8

a. Importance and impacts of quarries ......................................................................................................................................9
b. Quarries: a promising scar ....................................................................................................................................................10
c. Holcim Lebanon: an experimental platform...........................................................................................................................10
II. The Chekka quarry: following Holcim Lebanon steps ..........................................................................................................14
1. Chekka sketch........................................................................................................................................................................15
2. The rehabilitation process .....................................................................................................................................................16
3. Following Holcim Lebanons steps .......................................................................................................................................17
a. Step 1: Benchmarking........................................................................................................................................................18
b. Step 2: From perception to conception ............................................................................................................................21
c. Step 3: Implementation and Supervision ..........................................................................................................................30
d. Step 4: Monitoring the rehabilitation..................................................................................................................................49
III.Conclusion and Lessons learned ...........................................................................................................................................52
Bibliographic References.............................................................................................................................................................54
Website Resources ......................................................................................................................................................................56
Appendixes...................................................................................................................................................................................63
List of Figures
Figure 1 . Geographical location of the Holcim quarry site in Chekka

Figure 2 . HQS Environmental Damage
Figure 3 . The four key steps from scratch to monitoring
Figure 4 . The Stream Network based on the 2.5m DEM along with the location of the two outlets
Figure 5. Satellite image of the HQS displaying the four suggested subunits
Figure 6 . Initial rehabilitation design of the HQS (before and after site panoramas)
Figure 7. Stones used for wall construction
Figure 8. HQS walls features
Figure 9. Angle of the walls batter
Figure 10 . Gabion basket purchased from the supplier for assembly
Figure 11. Gabion wall
Figure 12. Existing impluvium structure in the Cliffland
Figure 13. Introduced merlon structures used to break the monotonous landscape
Figure 14. Dust control
Figure 15 . Water collected in P1 located in front of the Cliffland
Figure 16. Topsoil added in the HQS subunits
Figure 17 . Plowing and ripping compacted topsoil
Figure 18. Organic compost and peat moss amendments added to the topsoil
Figure 19 . Seedlings grown in the AFDC nursery in Ramliyeh
Figure 20 . Plant seedlings
Figure 21. Stacking applied for Olea
Figure 22. seedlings plantation
Figure 23. Partners contribution in plantation
Figure 24. Seed spreading
Figure 25. Lowland adjustment, double wall constructed over two levels
Figure 26 . Gap in Highland section
Figure 27 . Plantation pattern in the lowland
List of Tables
Table 1. Summary of HQS specificities and constraints, and suggested key rehabilitation objectives
Table 2. Plants used as seeds or seedlings in the rehabilitation of the HQS
Table 3. Objectives and techniques of the design
List of Acronyms
QRD
Quarry Rehabilitation Directive
IUCN
International Union for Conservation of Nature
ROWA
CNRS
National Council for Scientific Research
AFDC
Association for Forest Development and Conservation
AFC
Abou-Chacra and Frangieh Contracting
IDAF
Instituto de Defesa Agropecuria e Florestal do ES
HQS
Holcim Quarry Site
DEM
Digital Elevation Model
BOQ
Bill of Quantities
CSR
Corporate Social Responsibility
I. QUARRY REHABILITATION:
AN imPOSSIBLE MISSION
I. QUARRY REHABILITATION: AN imPOSSIBLE MISSION
I. Quarry Rehabilitation: an imPOSSIBLE mission
a. Importance and impacts of quarries

Quarrying activities are crucial components of socioeconomic development, as they provide the key material required for building
and infrastructure, as well as decent incomes through numerous job opportunities.. However, although these activities constitute
an important pillar of economic sustainability, quarrying is a short-term action with long term impacts affecting soil, water, and
other natural resources, not to mention the negative.. effects on human health.
Throughout the last decades, Lebanon faced intense quarrying activities resulting in severe degradation of its ecosystems,
illustrated by alterations of the vegetation cover, landform modifications and natural resources depletion (Khater et al., 2011a;
2011b). The number of quarries in Lebanon increased from 784 to 1278 between 1989 and 2005, and quarried areas almost
doubled since then (Darwish et al., 2011).
A recent study by the National Center for Scientific Research- Lebanon (Delpeuch, 2010) identifies the environmental impacts of
quarrying on the environmental, social and economic levels as the:
- Destruction of natural resources and habitats
- Pollution of ground water and surface water
- Soil degradation (erosion and landslides)
- Emission of dust, noise and vibration
- Air pollution
- Landscape alteration
- Degradation of large tracts of productive lands
In Lebanon there are six different types of quarrying operations: rock quarries, sand quarries, mosaic quarries, decorative stone
quarries, cement quarries and crushers without quarries (Ministry of environment 2006-1997). Spread across Lebanon, quarrying
industries are clustered around selected types of rocks such as marble, limestone, slate or gypsum. Moreover, abandoned
or non-operational quarries are widely distributed (Darwish et al. 2010). Generally, there are two main reasons behind quarry
abandonment: either the quarry has reached the property limits, or it was operating with no license and was consequently shut
down by the government..
Lebanon has several environmental laws dating as far back as the 1930s.. lacking implementation, enforcement, clarity and
consistency. A number of institutions in Lebanon are directly or indirectly involved in the management of degraded environments.
Before 2002, quarries faced political interference and conflict of prerogatives (Delpeuche 2010). The exploitation of more than 700
quarries with little consideration of landscape values has resulted in the degradation of major ecosystems and the subsequent
development of a large number of human settlements. In an attempt to regulate quarrying activities, the government ratified
several decrees which imposed the signature of a contract between ...the operator of a quarry/crusher and experts (Ministry of
the environment, municipalities, engineer or architects) in order to establish a quarterly review of operations. One of the decrees
states that no new license will be assigned to quarries unless they previously provide a rehabilitation plan abiding to national and
international standards. Other laws charge the quarries with taxes according to the excavated area and period of excavation.
Several decrees and acts impose a certain deposit on quarries to pay once they get the permit, to guarantee the rehabilitation
process after quarrying. The money is returned back to the operator once a rehabilitation plan is submitted and implemented.
Mediterranean Quarry Rehabilitation Manual
b. Quarries: a promising scar

Quarrying activities trigger the progressive demise of the excavated sites, which slowly degrade causing habitat fragmentation,
loss of biodiversity and resources depletion (El-Fadel et al., 2001; Khater et al., 2003; Groom et al., 2006). After the completion of
excavation activities, if the site is solely left for natural recovery, natural dynamics processes are only able to reinstate the prior
prevailing conditions and ecological functions after . a period which might... exceed 25 years (Khater, 2010).
While quarrying activity is a crucial economic activity serving the needs of social and urban development, it has major negative
impacts on the environment. Quarries represent extreme cases of degradation characterized by complete removal of vegetation
cover and profound landform modifications (Khater & Martin, 2007). Quarrying activities can intensely modify preexisting
ecosystems by perturbing the biogeochemical cycles and regimes; altering soil characteristics, landscape patterns and
integrity; destroying natural habitats; and interrupting species natural dynamics and genetic flows. By the end of the excavation
operations, and in the absence of any rehabilitation, quarries are left to undergo sustained degradation towards increased
ecosystem deterioration, surface runoff, accelerated erosion and reduced natural recharge (Atallah et al., 2003 ; Darwish et al.,
2010; Khater, 2010).
In a global trend aiming at sustainable development , quarry rehabilitation is considered a pioneering stepping stone towards
the fulfillment of the social, ecological and economic requirements in view of the increased demand on natural resources
exploitation. Reconciling ecological concerns and socioeconomic priorities, becomes a challenging task in a complex context
of environmental and socioeconomic realities, aiming at mainstreaming science into the design and restoration of degraded
ecosystems in a holistic sustainability perspective.
The overall interest lies in restoring habitats and ecosystem functions in order to develop ecologically sustainable areas (Suding,
et al. 2004). Restoration is a process which assists the ecosystem to recover to its former state. Yet, a restored ecosystem will not
necessarily fully recover, since contemporary constraints and conditions might reorient its evolution along an altered trajectory.
Ecological engineering is an emerging field integrating ecology and engineering concerned with the design, monitoring and
construction of ecosystems (Mitsch & Jorgensen, 1989). According to Mitsch (1996) the design of sustainable ecosystems
intends to integrate human society with its natural environment for the benefit of both.
Hence, ecological engineering involves the manipulation of natural material, living organisms and the physical-chemical
environment to achieve specific human goals and solve technical problems (SER, 2004).
Ecological restoration is the process of assisting the recovery of an ecosystem that has been degraded, damaged, or destroyed
(SER, 2002; Khater, 2010). An ecosystem is considered recovered and restored when it contains sufficient biotic and abiotic
resources to continue its development without further assistance or subsidy and it can sustain itselfstructurally and functionally.
Furthermore, it must demonstrate and must be ...resilient to normal ranges of environmental stress and disturbance and it
will interact with contiguous ecosystems in terms of biotic and abiotic flows and cultural interactions (SER, 2002). Ecological
restoration is the practice of restoring ecosystems as performed by practitioners at specific project sites, whereas restoration
ecology is the science upon which the practice is based (SER, 2004). Ideally, restoration ecology provides clear concepts,
models, methodologies and tools for practitioners to support their practice .
The practice of restoration ecology, when dealing with a degraded ecosystem, offers three ways for accelerating and orienting
the natural processes (Khater et al., 2011b). Aronson et al. (1993), Aronson and Le Floch (1995), Martin et al. (2002), SER (2002),
and Khater and Martin (2007) offer an exhaustive review of these three main concepts definitions which could be restated as:
1) Restoration: relying on spontaneous natural processes/dynamics and assisting the recovery of the pre-existing
ecosystem (closer to what it was before the anthropic disturbance).
2) Reallocation: adopting strong technical measures aiming to orient the future use of the site.
3) Rehabilitation: Assisting the restoration/rehabilitation through the adaption of technical measures to orient natural/
spontaneous succession due to a limitedin time intervention.
I. QUARRY REHABILITATION: AN imPOSSIBLE MISSION
Briefly, restoration/rehabilitation initiatives aim at:

- Favoring landscape integration within the surrounding area;
- Targeting site naturality (appearance and functionality);
- Restoring the native vegetation cover;
- Limiting soil erosion;
- Improving biodiversity onsite through habitat creation and management;
- Increasing biomass;
- Serving for educational .and research purposes;
- Minimizing adverse long-term environmental, social and economic impacts after quarry closure;
- Returning land to a beneficial post-quarrying use, balancing environmental, social and economic factors;
- Making the site safe and stable for future land use.
c. Holcim Lebanon: an experimental platform

Complying with its commitment to sustainable development and biodiversity management
and abiding by its Quarry
Rehabilitation Directive (QRD) issued under its corporate Environmental Policy in 2011, Holcim Group is committed to the
effective ... management and rehabilitation of operating quarries, in order to:
- Reintegrate the exhausted parts of a quarry into the surrounding natural landscape;
- Make the site safe and stable for future land use;
- Return land to a beneficial post-quarrying use, balancing environmental, social and economic factors;
- Minimize adverse long-term environmental, social and economic impacts after quarry closure.
In this context, concluding excavation activities in one of its quarry sites in Chekka North Lebanon extending over an area of
approximately 5 ha, Holcim Lebanon mandated a team of experts gathered from different institutions to design an ecological
restoration scheme for the latter in the frame of a mutual collaboration between Holcim Lebanon and IUCNs regional office for
West Asia (ROWA).
This pioneer initiative prioritizes ecological concerns and aims at reinstating, to the highest extent possible, the original ecological
characteristics of the site well before quarrying activities took place, with the least possible recurring interventions.
Built on close and long term collaboration between IUCN and Holcim, this project involves several partners: the National Council
for Scientific Research (CNRS-L), the Association for Forests Development and Conservation (AFDC) and Abou-Chacra and
Frangieh Contracting (AFC). The assigned team consists of experts with different knowledge and backgrounds:
1. IUCN expert: Eng. Mufleh Al Alaween Abbadi
2. CNRS-L experts:
- Carla Khater, PhD (Ecological restoration): CNRS project manager
- Chadi Abdallah, PhD (GIS and Geo-hazards)
- Talal Darwish, PhD (Soil science)
- Rita El Hajj (Ecology: Research Assistant)
- Karine Baz (Graphic design and technical assistance)
- Christine Maksoud (Landscape engineer)
- Ali Alyan and Rawane Alaily (Topographers - as part of their Master thesis)
3. AFDC experts:
- Sawsan Bou Fakhereddine
- Hisham Salman
- Elias Chnais
- Miguel Angel Navarrete (IDAF-Spain)
10
4. AFC experts:
- Rachid Abou Chacra
- Joe Abou Chacra
- Boulos Frangieh
5. Eco-Med experts:
- Alexandre Cluchier (Ecological engineer)
- Christophe Coton (Ecological restoration)
- Julien Viglione (Ecologist)
- Paolo Varese (Flora and ecological restoration)
This report comes as a third step after a first phase (January 2012 - August 2012) focused on initial assessments (Arab Resources
Development, 2003; Alomari and Abbadi, 2012; Chnais and Poyatos, 2012), and a second phase (September 2012 - November
2012) concerned by the design of the rehabilitation scheme (CNRS/AFDC 2012). It covers the last implementation, supervision
and documentation stage of the project (May 2013 - April 2014).
Building on the experience of Holcim Lebanon in rehabilitating one of its degraded quarries after excavation activities, this
report will provide guidelines for rehabilitation practices in Lebanon and the Mediterranean. It will suggest milestones towards a
successful rehabilitation process and discuss the challenges and constraints facing restoration initiatives while highlighting the
main elements and lessons learned for future rehabilitation attempts in limestone quarries.
11
II. THE CHEKKA QUARRY:

FOLLOWING
HOLCIM
,
LEBANON S STEPS
,
II. THE CHEKKA QUARRY: FOLLOWING HOLCIM LEBANON S STEPS
II. The Chekka quarry: following Holcim Lebanons steps
1. The Chekka sketch

The study site is a former active quarry owned by Holcim Lebanon, one of the leading cement companies in Lebanon. Located
on the edge of the coastal plain of El Heri in the Caza Batroun (North Lebanon governorate) at the center of Chekka Bay, the
quarry lies on the northern foothills of the Chekka formation and extends on one of the Holcim quarry sites spreading over the
parcels 625 ,624 ,623 over an area of 4,62 ha. This abandoned and degraded site was made available by Holcim Lebanon for
ecological restoration purposes (Figure1).
Figure 1. Geographical location of the Holcim quarry site in Chekka

The site is surrounded by typical Mediterranean scrubland areas and stands at an altitude ranging between 60 and 110 meters
above sea level on a slope gradient from south to north ranging from 15 to %20. The HQS is identified as a limestone quarry
with the existence of gravel, and represents approximately %10 of the total excavated quarried area in the surrounding region.
In 2006, excavation activities were concluded and the site was left to natural dynamics processes. However, uncontrolled grazing
activities, as well as climatic and edaphic constraints have limited natural regeneration capacity. In 2009, a rehabilitation initiative
within the site was undertaken through the plantation of stone pine stands (Pinus pinea). Yet, due to environmental incompatibility
and inability to adapt to the sites abiotic conditions, the planted trees did not grow successfully and the spot was colonized by
spontaneous herbaceous vegetation.
14
This rehabilitation initiative supports Holcim Lebanons credibility towards the local communities in dealing with the
environmental challenges of its activities and commitment to mitigate the impact. Furthermost, this initiative is presented as a
pilot project to serve as a model that can be replicated in Lebanon and the region.
Quarrying activities in the HQS have resulted in serious environmental damages. The main site specificities resulting from the
accrued excavation misdeeds can be briefly summarized as:
Chekka
Figure 2. HQS Environmental Damages
2. The rehabilitation process

In view of the current status and the environmental damages it underwent the main objectives of the HQS rehabilitation project
were set as following:
- Limit soil erosion and water runoff while reducing water speed through improved water harvesting and increased rainwater
infiltration.
- Promote landscape integration within the surrounding zone through the restoration of the natural floristic composition of the
area and the use of native flora species.
- Target site naturality (appearance and functionality) to improve biodiversity onsite.
- Restore and keep the site as similar as possible to its natural state by restoring native vegetation cover.
- Serve for educational and research purposes.
- Develop management guidelines and ensure annual monitoring and follow-up.
Set realistic objectives in view of the sites status and environment.
15
,
3. From scratch to closure

The HQS rehabilitation process should follow four steps from initiation to monitoring:
- Step 1: Benchmarking: initiation phase of the project (baseline surveys);
- Step 2: Rehabilitation scheme conception: planning stage of the project;
- Step 3: Implementation: execution step of the project along with supervision
and documentation of the implantation milestones;
- Step 4: Monitoring: monitoring the rehabilitation phase of the project.
Figure 3. The four key steps from scratch to monitoring

This adopted approach, along with its corresponding milestones, can be easily replicated in comparable sites (characterized by
similar conditions to the HQS site) across Lebanon and the Mediterranean.
The following steps are suggested guidelines for practitioners aiming at orienting quarry rehabilitation processes.
16
a. Step 1: Benchmarking
The project benchmarking is the official launch of the projects design/implementation process. It is based on the identification
of the project needs including assessments, expenses, risks, resources allocation, etc. This step is considered an investigation
phase through which different systematic observations are carried out to identify the sites potentials which will guide the
future phases of rehabilitation.
a.1. Biodiversity assessment
Biodiversity assessment consist of collecting information (inventories) on the fauna and flora species present in a given area.
As confirmed by the IUCN guide to biodiversity released in
April 2000 (Assessing the status and trends of biodiversity
is essential for sustainable development strategies at all
levels), performing a biodiversity assessment is one of the
main components of a rehabilitation process. It allows the
determination of the floristic composition, the abundance and
density of the main species, and the diversity of species; it
defines the bio-geographical and bio-climatic features of the
site; it sets the recommendations for the most suitable species
for restoration; and it proposes actions to optimize vegetation
reinstatement in the quarry.
The period of assessment is a key element, as Otherwise, it will
be of a limited success.
A proper biodiversity assessment is usually performed over a
period of approximately three to nine months. It may sometimes
require a longer time-scale (an entire year or more) to ensure that
it covers all the species life cycles. The period of assessment
can be however reduced, in other cases, if sufficient data is
available for the site/area.
Biodiversity assessments performed before

excavation activities can serve as reference to
orient rehabilitation processes and evaluate their
success.
Developing environmental indicators based on
biodiversity assessment is an essential step
towards the initiation of a monitoring plan for the
site.
The optimal periods of biodiversity assessment
are usually related to season and climate
In Mediterranean environments such as

Lebanon, biodiversity assessment is ideally
undertaken in Spring (February - April) and/or
Fall (September - November).
In the HQS, the biodiversity assessment, including floristic composition, abundance, percent cover, diversity, ecological
resilience of the identified plant communities and grazing impacts, was conducted in late Spring (during the period
of 2012/5/23-21), (Chnais and Poyatos, 2012). Some of the identified species were Inula viscosa, Calicotome villosa,
Sacropoterium spinosum, Onionis pubescens and Capparis spinosa.
Taking into consideration the current state of the quarry and the weak ecosystem dynamics prevailing within its plant
communities, several species were proposed for restoration.
As for the fauna, only the red fox, vulpes was recorded during the assessment. No rodents were found onsite due to the
complete removal of topsoil. A low number of birds were identified, with the presence of disturbance-resistant birds such
as: Falco tinnunculus, Galerida cristata, Prinia gracilis, Oenanthe oenanthe, Corvus cornix, Passer domesticus, Oenanthe
hispanica, Oenanthe isabellina, Monticola solitaries (Alomari and Abbadi, 2012) with the exception of disturbance. Turtles
such as Testudo terrestris, known to be vulnerable species, were spotted in the direct site surroundings. Finally, Laudakia
stellio and Cyrtopodion kotschyi, were the only species of reptiles identified onsite.
17
,
a.2. Geology and Hydrology assessments

These assessments aim at identifying the sites geological
features including terrain stability, as well as the state of
the existing water network/flow (adjacent water courses
and streams). Large exposed bedrock with lack of topsoil
and fine material and a highly deformed topography are
detected.
Geology and Hydrology assessments are crucial

for identifying the sites geological features, terrain
stability and state water flow.
This area is mainly occupied by the Sannine - Maameltain formation (C5), which is composed of massive gray to white
limestone belonging to the Cenomanian Turonian. The Chekka formation (C6) of Senonian formation and the Quaternary
formation (Q) can also be found in this area (Arab Resources Development, 2003)
The hydrology assessment revealed that the closest major river is the Jouz River that has related water courses most of
which are seasonal and active only during the rainy season. Field surveys showed that the Asfour stream is the major
seasonal watercourse in the area. A seasonal wadi is present on the north eastern side of the site (Dalton, 2012).
a.3. Social assessment
This assessment aims at identifying the major stakeholders
involved in the quarry rehabilitation process, their roles,
responsibilities, influence and degree of intervention.
Interviews with concerned stakeholders are an important
element guiding the concept of a successful rehabilitation
scheme.
Quarrying activities have a direct impact on surrounding
communities. Consultation meetings with neighboring
villages will thus highlight their main concerns and assess
their opinion regarding the quarried site. This step is of
major importance in orienting the quarry rehabilitation
design with respect to locals needs (recreational, touristic,
educational or social values anticipated from the project),
fears and expectations.
Stakeholders are the persons directly or indirectly:

- Affected by the quarry activity
- Involved in the exploitation and management of
the quarry site
- Benefiting from the rehabilitation of the quarry site
A participatory planning based on consultation
meetings with stakeholders is a strategic approach
which highlights the main challenges, fears and
expectations of communities and other stakeholders
involved in the management of the site. It plays a key
role in orienting decision making processes.
Taking into consideration the current state of the quarry and the weak ecosystem dynamics prevailing within its plant
communities, several species were proposed for restoration.
The Holcim rehabilitation project did not consider the social aspect as part of the assessments, so no social surveys
were performed. The decision making processes were exclusively kept to the Holcim representatives as they are the sole
owners, investors, and only beneficiaries of the project.
Scientific assessments and baseline surveys are key elements of a successful rehabilitation process. They highlight the
main socio-ecological aspects of a given site and therefore enable a better orientation of rehabilitation objectives and
schemes.
Table 1 summarizes the key issues of concern encountered onsite based on the surveys results, and highlights the
corresponding rehabilitation objectives and recommended actions in view of the sites constraints and specificities. This
table was developed upon the review of the flora, fauna and hydrological assessments performed during the first phase
of the design.
18
T A B L E
Objectives and techniques of the design

Site specificities
High degradation of
quarry site, and loss
of ecological
resilience, lack of
capacity for natural
regeneration in short
to medium term.
Alteration of the
natural topography.
Lack of topsoil, low
biodiversity and slow
recovery rate.
Partial elimination of
the native flora cover.
Floristic composition:
Inula viscosa,
Calicotome villosa,
Sarcopoterium
spinosum, Ononis
pubescens, Capparis
spinosa, Scolymus
hispanicus, Lavatera
punctata, Echinops
viscosus , Spartium
junceum, Helichrysum
sanguineum, and
Micromeria sp.
Little or no soil
present
due to excavation
activities.
no rodents found on
site since the topsoil
is completely
removed.
Low number of birds.
Presence of
disturbance resistant
birds such as
Common Kestrel,
Crested Lark,
Graceful Warbler,
Wheatear, Hooded
Crow, House Sparrow,
Black-eared
Wheatear, Isabelline
Wheatear,
Blue Rock-Thrush.
Site surroundings specificities

Shrubby layers composed of
cosmopolitan species belonging to
the Lamiaceae and Compositae
families dominate the natural
landscape. Dominant species are
Quercus calliprinos, Calycotome
villosa, Sarcopoterium spinosum.
Seasonal water availability and mild
climatic condition.
Improved drainage conditions.
Floristic composition: Inula viscosa,
Calicotome villosa, Ononis
pubescens, Teucrium polium,
Sarcopoterium spinosum, Thymbra
spicata, Spartium junceum,
Eryngium creticum, Teucrium
divarticum, Micromeria sp.
A seasonal wadi is present on the
north-east side of the site, divided
into a lower area and a higher area.
The higher area drains a larger,
steeper catchment area. The lower
area drains a small catchment area,
and receives supplemental flow from
a channel which joins the wadi
directly behind the rehabilitation-site.
High sediment loads and high pH of
the water draining into the soil
affecting water reservoirs.
Presence of rodents such as Lesser
Mole Rat Spalax ehrinbergi.
Carnivores such as Red Fox, Feral
Dogs, Hyena Hyena hyena, Wolf
Canis lupus, Golden Jackal Canis
aureus, and the Common Badger
Meles meles exist.
Sensitive key
issues onsite
Slow ecological
succession.
Few possibilities to
store water in soil
or natural
depressions. Thus,
rainfall will either
evaporate, run-off,
or drain quickly
into cracks in the
limestone.
The natural wadi
is the main water
source.
Uncontrolled
grazing onsite has
an impact on flora
cover (over 30%),
and perturbation
of the fauna life
cycle.
Turtles Testudo
terrestris are
vulnerable species
spotted in the
direct site
surroundings and
potentially present
onsite.
Possible hunting
activities onsite.
Poor vegetative
cover and high
disturbance
affected food
availability and
shelter for birds .
Reptiles
preference to
rocks like Laudakia
stellio and
Cyrtopodion
kotschyi are the
only species to
occur.
Rehabilitation
objectives
Limit soil erosion
and reduce water
runoff.
Promote
landscape
integration within
the surrounding,
and icrease site
capacity for
ecological
functionality.
Restore and keep
the site as close
as possible to
natural state.
Model for
restoration in the
region.
Serve for
educational and
research
purposes.
Improve fauna
presence and
use onsite
through habitat
creation and
management.
Recommended actions
1. Improve water availability
onsite.
2. Adjust timing, shaping,
and sizing of the
rehabilitation with respect
to fauna and flora life
cycles.
3. Substitution of early
successional species with
later successional
species to accelerate
ecological succession.
4. Enrichment of mature
community species to
increase the density of
their populations and
stabilize the system.
5. Reduce soil introduction
to limit risk of ruderal-in
vasive species potentially
present in the seed bank.
6. Soil can be mixed with
organic compost, gravels
and rocks to respect site
naturality.
7. Privilege, when possible,
transport topsoil from
neighboring reference
ecosystem in the site.
8. Benefit from direct seed
sowing and seedling
transplants.
9. Plan timing considering
rainfall periods and large
events, to provide soil
moisture for seed
germination and natural
regeneration.
10. Take into account the
wider landscape
functions.
11. Suggest long term
monitoring scheme based
on rapid assessment of
key species.
12. Use hard machinery from
Holcim in the rehabilitation execution.
13. Orient choice of species
to be used with respect of
existing species.
14. Promote habitat
creation for fauna
species.
19
,
b. Step 2: From perception to conception

Good planning is required to determine in which direction a project is leaning. An interactive planning process draws a
clear and concise path which orients the projects activities and provides a clear understanding of the final results, while
highlighting milestones and major phases towards the fulfillment of the set objectives.
Several ingredients contribute to the success of a project, mainly:
- The team efficiency and dedication;
- The definition of clear and concise objectives;
- The diligence in implementation and pertinent follow-up;
- The flexibility of the implementing party.
Following the identification of the main challenges and
constraints related to the HQS through a comprehensive
analysis of collected data, objectives definition becomes a first
step towards the identification of the project goals. Once targets
are well defined, the search for the answers starts through the
conception of schemes and designs adapted to site realities
and the expectations of the stakeholders. These schemes are
then put into action and concretely implemented, supervised
and monitored over a period of time to ensure an optimal longterm achievement of the set objectives.
Project milestones:
- Gather the data (baseline surveys);
- Set the objectives;
- Search for a solution (concept);
- Illustrate with a design;
- Execute and supervise;
- Monitor the projects evolution over a given
period of time.
b.1. Objectives
Defining the rehabilitation objectives is one of the key
components of the project. No matter how wide the ambitions
are, setting clear objectives will help guiding the projects
activities into tangible results.
The rehabilitation objectives guide the projects

activities into tangible results.
Knowing that the HQS site is characterized by serious environmental damages resulting from the excessive excavation
activities, the main objectives of the rehabilitation project were set as follow:
a. Re-integrate the quarry in its surrounding landscape.
b. Make the site safe and stable for frequentation.
c. Make the land functional after accrued usage and inquest a balance between environmental, social and economic
factors.
d. Reduce the long-term negative impacts on the environmental, social and economic levels.
b.2. Orienting the design
During the design phase of the rehabilitation scheme, aspects related to the season of intervention, the ecological
functionalities of the site, the integrated energy design, the landscape context, the site features, the water availability
onsite, the choice of plants, the available substrates (rocks, clinker, etc.), the natural dynamic zones, the technical tools to
be used, the budget, the project timeline, and the expected technical outputs, should be thoroughly considered in order
to achieve a successful rehabilitation plan.
b.2.1. Season of intervention
20
The biodiversity assessment highlighted the major ecological

It is recommended to avoid working during peak
sensitivities of the HQS. In view of the achieved results,
nesting and reproduction seasons.
rehabilitation activities were planned with respect to the
identified species biological cycles. However, as HQS did not exhibit any major ecological sensitive species,before the
season of intervention was scheduled before end of summer in order to plan for the plantation process in line with the
next rainy season.
b.2.2. Ecological continuities

From an ecological point of view, a site is perceived as a series of corridors and biological reservoirs. The reservoirs
are identified as the non-disturbed spots still acting as a refuge and/or shelter for biodiversity, whereas corridors
are perceived as functional sectors used by species to perform their biological cycles (reproduction, hunting, feeding,
movement, etc.)
Once biological reservoirs are identified, the purpose is to orient the design in a way to restore or strengthen their role as
refuges or shelters and to enhance their connectivity through the creation or restoration of corridors.
In the case of the HQS, as the site is located in the direct vicinity of the wadi, the main ecological concerns are
thus focused on this wadi as being a temporary water flow system and a permanent biological corridor for species
movements and hunting (mainly for birds, reptiles and small mammals).
The biological reservoirs in the HQS were carefully identified in order to preserve existing spots (existing S-structures,
spots in the embankments and quarry edges) and to improve their connectivity (creation of new S-structures and water
flow canals).
b.2.3. Integrated energy design
An integrated energy design is a method which highly considers energy performance in such a way as to reduce to
reduce to the best possible extent the consumption of non-renewable resources and produce minimum negative impacts
on the ecosystems assets. Such a design is a prerequisite to:
- Achieve optimal implementation performance with low
energy consumption;
- Reduce operating costs;
- Lessen negative impacts on natural resources.
Integrating sustainability into the project will

guarantee a long-term lifecycle and promote a
better site performance.
b.2.4. Landscape context

The understanding of prevailing large-scale ecological
processes helps orienting rehabilitation design and
reintroducing life into the site. Landscape ecological principles
aim at integrating a degraded site into its surrounding physical,
biological and cultural features, while striving to achieve
an original combination of science and art targeting impact
mitigation and aesthetic ends.
A rehabilitation scheme has to target the integration of the site with its natural surroundings
in order to create a robust environment based
on ecologically sound principles.
b.2.5. Site features

Cliffs are considered as potential microhabitats for wildlife, as
they serve as shelters for reproduction, nesting and perching
for several fauna (lizards, birds, snacks, spiders, etc.) and flora
(lichens and mosses) species. The conservation of cliff areas
protects the fragile ecological communities already disturbed
by the quarrying activities.
Site
heterogeneity
induces
significant
variations in landform which generates unique
microhabitats
under
various
conditions
(temperature, moisture, wind, light exposure,
etc) promoting microclimate differentiation at
a smaller scale, and therefore, higher biodiversity
potentialities.
In the HQS, several cliffs bearing many cervices resulting

from the quarrying operations occur. Given their importance
in supporting the natural development of plants and animals species, these areas are highly valorized and included
throughout the design of the rehabilitation scheme in order to re-establish topographic heterogeneity and target
geomorphologic diversities and varied exposures (bench levels, steep cliffs and platforms).
b.2.6. Water availability onsite
The HQS is described as a dry environment as it falls in the thermo-Mediterranean bioclimatic level characterized by four
months of cold and very wet winters (with high amounts of precipitation) followed by eight months of very hot and dry summer.
21
,
Water availability onsite was proven to be an important factor

to be considered during the rehabilitation process. The fair
amount of yearly precipitation supports the potential creation
of wet areas (ponds) which in turn play an important
role as shelters for a large number of animals, insects and
plants. On the other hand, the rugged topography of the site
supports on another hand a specific water flow that can be
pertinently redirected in order to optimize water availability.
Water is an important component to consider

in the design of a rehabilitation scheme. The
creation of ponds induces several ecological
processes while boosting the lifecycle of a
large number of fauna and flora species and
improving landscape quality and value.
Wet areas encompass several microhabitats (surface habitat, shore habitat, etc.) serving as different niches for diverse
fauna and flora communities. Ponds are thus temporary water structures created in order to promote and boost the life
cycles of particular species, while improving landscape aesthetics and enhancing the sites ecological functionalities
b.2.7. Choice of plants
The success of plantation operations is strictly related to the choice of species with respect to the
concepts of biological integrity, local competitiveness and seed availability and adaptability
(Khater et al., 2003; Khater and Martin, 2007).
- Why re-vegetating a degraded area?
Vegetation is the best prevention against soil erosion. To re-vegetate holds many benefits such as conserving and
enriching native plant communities and improving wildlife habitats. It reduces soil erosion and water loss, and provides
shelter and shade while increasing soil fertility.
- What species to select?
As long as an intervention is planned (planting or seeding), the
major constraint is to make sure plant species are adapted to
the harsh conditions of the site. Hence, it is recommended
to select those from the list of species present in reference
ecosystems (being either neighboring ecosystems to the site,
or similar degraded sites in comparable environments).
The choice of plants species to be used in the

restoration scheme should conform to two basic
principles: availability and adaptability.
Non-native plants might sometimes act as invasive species (competition with other plants over nutrients and water).
The use of native indigenous plants conserves the authenticity of the existing natural environment and contributes to
maintaining the unique character of the landscape. Native plants are more resilient and have a better ability to regenerate
after disturbance.
- What should be the source of the plants or seeds?
As plant growth follows specific biological cycles, seeds are not readily available throughout the year. The chosen
species are meant to replicate a natural Mediterranean coastal ecosystem as common in the quarry area. It would be
however impossible to grow all the species occurring within the sites proximity. However, with time, these species will
colonize the site again as the soil conditions and the ecosystem functions are restored.
The source of plants can be either from direct seed collection from natural populations or from transplanted plants from
stands or cuttings raised in nurseries.
Plant stocks and seeds used for the rehabilitation of a degraded
area are rarely available in nurseries. However, local councils
and land-care groups run nurseries specialized in indigenous
plants and sometimes keep stocks of local plants, or might be
able to collect seeds and grow the required plants.
22
Stands, cuttings or even seeds of native species

are not commonly found in nurseries.
The suggested list of species for plantation in the HQS is presented in Table 2.
T A B L E ( 2 )
Demographic Make-up of Maan Governorate
Seeds
Calicotome villosa
Seedlings
Quercus calliprinos
Pistacia palaestina
Salvia triloba
Olea europaea
Pistacia lentiscus
Oreganum syriacum
Ceratonia siliqua
Spartium junceum
Thymbra spicata
Pinus brutia
Thymbra spicata
Ficus carica
b.2.8. Creating masses of plants

The variability of a stands structure is an important factor triggering higher ecological performance of a site. Tree patches
feature unique habitats with high rates of species diversity which generate higher small-scale habitat heterogeneity
compared to conventional plantation styles (Benayas et al., 2008)
Creating a mosaic structure of plants using different shapes and levels and a mixture of deciduous and perennial plants
breaks the topography of a degraded site and revives the landscape. Such structures support species diversity, reinstate
a variety of microhabitats, and retain the substrates cohesion and humidity. Irregular mosaics of vegetation patches
alternately distributed with barren rocky lands enhance fauna frequentation and biodiversity, especially birds. Ward and
Anderson (1988) confirm that in a location where vertical and horizontal vegetation structures are homogeneous, bird
species diversity is usually low.
Along the HQS, mosaics of vegetated and non-vegetated
patches were created not only through plantations but also
through the installation of merlon-like structures (structures
composed of rocks, gravels and topsoil). This assortment
creates a variety of habitats privileged by a wide number of
species. The green patches include a palette of plant species
Green patches with different plants size and

shapes contribute to a wider, hence richer,
species composition and microhabitats diversity.
selected from those listed in Table 2.
b.2.9. Rocks
The presence of rocks, stones and boulders highly contributes in breaking the monotonous aspects of a degraded site,
while creating safe microhabitats for particular fauna species (such as reptiles).
Different types of stones can be used in rehabilitation activities. However, the perfect choice would target rocks with
related value to the local landscape of the site in order to conserve its naturality.
If natural rocks already exist in or around the previously quarried
site, their use would bring an added value to the rehabilitation
process as the reuse of these leftovers would not only
valorize their presence onsite, but also contribute to achieving
the ecological rehabilitation targets.
The HQS rehabilitation design includes planted merlon-like
structures, which would improve the landscape and serve as
shelters for plants and animals.
Make use of the onsite aggregates left after the

excavation processes!
Use onsite rocks to conserve site naturality , to
reduce costs, and to improve landscape. Rocks
are privileged habitats for several fauna species.
b.2.10. Natural dynamic zones

Nature tends to grow in complexity and richness by taking advantage of all possibilities allowed by the environment
(Cantore, 1977).
A rehabilitation initiative is not only meant to restore and conserve a degraded site through time-bonded interventions, but
is also keen on preserving the ability of nature to evolve at its own pace over time.
23
,
Natural dynamics zones serve as experimental areas for the study of natural dynamics and successions in degraded
sites with no human intervention for restoration. These areas have to be regularly observed and monitored in order to
understand natures potentials and compare (over time) the difference between the results achieved in rehabilitated
sectors to those reached in patches where nature was left to evolve on its own.
Hence, aiming to at understanding the natural processes involved
in the normal evolution of the landscape, some areas within the
HQS were left with no intervention for monitoring and scientific
research purposes. These areas will further serve as a reference
to determine whether the suggested rehabilitation scheme
succeeded in complying with natures trajectory.
Natural dynamic zones left with no intervention

allow the observation and monitoring of
natures evolution and dynamics over time on
a degraded site.
b.2.11.Technical tools
Several tools were used to orient the rehabilitation scheme of the
HQS: a digital elevation model (DEM), topographic maps and a
water flow model.
The DEM thoroughly assesses the topography of the site. It
highlights the variability in terrain elevations over a specific area
and for exact spatial intervals (2.5m).
The DEM facilitated the production of a rainfall-runoff hydro
model, which facilitated the analysis of the sites hydrology in
order to better orient water management onsite. Flow direction,
flow accumulation and stream networks were assessed through
Arc Hydro.
The results exhibited a highly irregular terrain with narrow drainage
The DEM study facilitates the development of an in-situ
rainfall-runoff hydro model. It gives a clear location of
water drainage paths and collection areas.
paths, and detected areas where water is mostly collected.
b.2.12.Project timeline
The project implementation timeline is a schedule which sets for
each activity:
- The time for execution;
- The duration for achievement;
Figure 4. The Stream Network based on the

2.5m DEM along with the location of the two
- The responsible party for implementation.

The contractor has a fixed time interval to achieve execution. Some tasks cannot be completed until others are finished,
while other activities can be accomplished in parallel. Some labor requires the skills of a single individual, while other
tasks require the collaboration of several persons to lighten the load.
Progress charts have to be presented by each organization (or partner involved in the project) to display the expected
timing/duration of each activity and foresee accordingly the overall approximate period for implementation. These charts
present the phases of the project and the sequence in which the associated activities shall be carried out, with an estimate
for the extent of time required for each activity. This schedule, also known as Gantt chart, illustrates the activities which
24
can be executed in parallel to reduce the overall timeline, and those which have to be accomplished sequentially. The
schedule should take into consideration the hours during which the employees are available, their vacations, and the
companys holidays.
The project should also have a fixed deadline for completion. Once the deliverables satisfy the projects funders,
beneficiaries, and end-users, the project is considered achieved. At this stage, post-closure agreements including postdelivery support, warranties, inspections and payments should
be carried out.
The key to a successful project implementation is
scheduling the priorities and optimizing time use.
Throughout the Holcim experience, schedules were submitted
before work initiation (Appendix 1).
b.2.13. Budget and investment
A project has to be set along with a budget which quantitatively
reflects the cost of execution. The budget exhibits the expenses
or financial liabilities which will allow implementing the related
project activities.
The budget thoroughly includes all the financial

requirements needed for an optimal achievement
of the projects objectives.
Budgeting is a crucial step in the design of a project. It predicts and calculates all the costs related to implementation
including labor, material, expertise, field expenses, etc. along specific budget lines.
Throughout the Holcim experience, time and money were invested to achieve quality end results.
Most of the material used for rehabilitation were already found onsite which reduced the expenses related to the purchase
of rocks (considering that Holcim is the only funder of this project).
With respect to a budget envelop of 255.000 USD set by Holcim Lebanon, bills of quantity (BOQ) including plantation,
labor work (terrain preparation), irrigation, material purchase, removal of existing material, and cost of maintenance and
management of the site over two years were developed.
b.2.14. Technical outputs
Many tools are available to facilitate the design of the rehabilitation scheme:
- Sketches: freehand drawings executed to develop and graphically demonstrate a concept. Sketches can be
considered as preliminary draft outputs of the rehabilitation schemes.
- Software products: computer programs which illustrate the technical detailed design along with the visual aspects.
The following technical outputs were attained in the process
of the quarry restoration design using Autocad, GIS and
Photoshop:
Start from scratch then push your concept

beyond with technical plans.
- A digital elevation model (DEM);

- A 3D fly-over of the quarry site;
- Technical AutoCAD drawings of the final restoration
design and subunits, along with site panoramas.
b.3. Concept and Design
Set your goals, envision your concept, illustrate

with a coherent design with sites specificities,
adjust and amend according to site constraints,
and end-up with a success story!
Rehabilitation design conception is a critical phase which has

to abide to a specific method, taking into account all the site
features, specificities, constraints, as well as spatial, temporal and human resources challenges related to execution.
The concept must respect the predefined goals of the project.
Being the on-site key issue of concern, water availability is considered to be the prime core of the whole new HQS
restoration scheme. The concept of the rehabilitation design is defined as: A Hidden Loop across a Dryland.
25
,
Hidden for a long period across the year a crucial component triggering natural dynamic processes, water is the primary loop
of the final suggested design, sustaining long-term ecological dynamics across the quarry site dry environment.
This design is oriented towards creating a water web inside the quarry site to act as a network to slow down water runoff and
temporarily increase its availability onsite. The importance accorded to water availability makes the latter the core intervention
of the final adopted restoration scheme. This approach secures a pertinent future ecological reinstatement of the site by owing
it with a complex network of water ponds that will support fauna and flora development.
The rehabilitation scheme divides the quarry site into four main subunits: Highland, Cliffland, Coreland and Lowland according
to the main concept of the design aiming at creating coherently structured subunits respecting the key principles of ecological
restoration and providing a fair space for education and scientific research purposes (Table 3 and Figures 4 and 5).
The rehabilitation scheme divides the quarry site into 4 main subunits: Highland, Cliffland, Coreland and Lowland according to the
main concept of the design aiming to create coherently structured subunits respecting the key principles of ecological restoration
and providing a fair space for education and scientific research purposes (Table 3 and Figures 4 and 5).
T A B L E
( 3 )
Objectives and techniques of the design

Subunit
Techniques
Highland
- Break the visual impact of excavation scars.

- Increase biomass on the terraces.
- Create an adequate habitat attracting small fauna
species.
- Respect natural dynamics occurring on the head of the
quarry wall boasting rock-adapted (rupicolous) flora
and faunaspecies, and create a space for research and
monitoring purposes.
Consider 2 sections within the terrace:

- The first using planted gabions located at 0.5m from the edge of the terrace,
while keeping the space behind the latter clear/open for monitoring. In these
gabions, place a coconut blanket topped with an approximate volume of 2 m3
of soil.
- The second section using unplanted gabions located at 0.5m from the edge of
the terrace to retain the backward topsoil which will be added and planted
with native shrubs. Add a geotextile behind the non-planted gabions to retain
the soils fine materials.
Cliffland
Create a Mediterranean-type mosaic mesophilic

habitat, aiming at:
- Creating an adequate habitat for Testudo terrestris.
- Enhancing reptiles presence onsite by creating a
mixed formation of rocks and shrubs.
- Cover the area with an irregular layer of topsoil and plant it with native species
and shrubs.
- Make use of and expand the natural landform as an impluvium (catchment
basin) to retain soil.
- Install internal gabion structures (close and parallel to the existing impluvium)
to serve as a second defense line.
Create a water web throughout the quarry site composed of a network of three ponds aiming at:
- Slowing down water run-off.
- Guiding water across the site.
- Creating temporary water retaining structures
providing humidity to the site.
- Creating a network of sub-humid habitats in an overall
dry environment.
- Improving amphibians and insects frequentation.
- Boosting overall site visual appearance
- Create 3 ponds by land excavation:

The bulldozer will dig a sloping pond up to 30cm in P1 and P3 and 50cm in P2
opposite to the sites slope.
On the shallow side of the 2nd pond, an overflow at 10cm from surface is
planned. The overflow shall pour from P2 into a created 1m width and 30cm
depth overflow canal on the western roadside to ensure water evacuation
outside the site.
Add a 10cm layer of clay at the bottom of each pond and compact it to ensure
water repellency.
- Level the terrain towards P2 to avoid water accumulation around the pond and
ensure overall water flow towards the pond.
- Ensure terrain leveling up to 1m to facilitate smooth water flow across the site.
- Create merlon-like-structures planting units (referred as S structures) (rocks,
gravels and topsoil mixed with organic compost) and plant/seed them with a
variety of native species.
- Add topsoil and install merlon-like-structures around P3.
Create a demonstration area composed of adapted

plant species used in the sites restoration, aiming to
serve as panel area for the whole quarry site.
- Use the clinker pile available next to the suggested P3 for ground leveling
within the low-land.
- Build a stone/retaining wall of 100 cm on the northern and eastern sides of the
existing clinker in order to retain soil and stabilize the structure, and mount 2
traditional stone walls of 100 cm height within the clinker along with small
terraces of 20-25 cm height to improve visual integration.
- Install a 20cm bed of gravels on top of the clinker to improve water drainage.
- Add approximately 80 cm of topsoil layer.
- Plant with the panel of species (trees and shrubs) used in the restoration of the
quarry site.
Coreland
Lowland
26
Objectives
Figure 5. Satellite image of the HQS displaying the four suggested subunits
27
,
Figure 6. Initial rehabilitation design of the HQS (before and after site panoramas)
(This design was amended during implementation to cope with unexpected site constraints)
28
b.4. Partners engagement

Team work is a key component for a projects success. Choosing the right experts is a major chapter in any given project.
During the Holcim project, a partnership with a group of national experts sharing the same passion and interest in quarry
rehabilitation was established. This pool of experts is involved in advising and assisting the team in achieving an optimal
rehabilitation design and producing high quality outputs.
Led by Holcim and IUCN and jointly executed by CNRS and AFDC, this HQS rehabilitation initiative has enabled the
design of the first restoration scheme for a quarry in Lebanon. This design has been conceived to serve as a pilot example
which can be readapted and replicated in other sites in Lebanon and throughout the Mediterranean basin and shall be
put at the disposal of the scientific community for future monitoring and research purposes. After setting the objectives,
the concept and the design, the implementation was allocated (assigned) among partners so that every party, according
to its expertise, takes responsibility of a specific part of the work.
By implementing this project, Holcim would have not only
abided by its environmental charter, but also extended its
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to include a national
NGO (AFDC), an international organization (IUCN) as well as a
National Research Center (CNRS).
Take advantage of experts knowledge and

skills. Put the right person in the right place
where their performance is at its best!
c. Step 3: Implementation and Supervision

Execution is the ability to mesh strategy with reality, align people with goals, and achieve the promised results (Larry
Bossidy, 2002)
This step is the heart of the project. It is about shaping the project
concepts into visible outputs. Execution of activities is usually
assigned to specific agencies (contractors). In the current project,
AFC (Abou-Chacra and Frangieh Contracting) was the contractor in
charge of implementing the rehabilitation scheme.
Implementation requires planning and structured

execution.
c.1. Securing the working area

Site stabilization is a crucial step towards its protection from eventual external disturbances which might affect
rehabilitation activities progress. Therefore, it is highly recommended to establish at a first stage (before activities
launching) well-controlled physical boundaries limiting site access during project implementation in order to create a
suitable environment in which the rehabilitation activities can be successfully implemented.
The site must be prepared to support a productive environment and the required infrastructure should be ready in place
to be used during the implementation.
During the Holcim rehabilitation process, the contractor
Ready for implementation?
respected and applied all the security measures related to the
Safety comes first!
site and personnel. Delineating the site perimeter protected it
Delimit your work zone, use the convenient
from inadvertently accesses. Fencing was not possible, but a
equipment and signs, and secure your terrain to
gate helped controlling unauthorized access to the site. Onsite
ensure a safe workspace.
labor force (workers, subcontractors and contractors) was
equipped with all compulsory safety/security measures (hard
helmets, safety glasses, reflective vests, and safety boots). Emergency and rescue procedures were also planned in case
of any accident or injury.
29
,
c.2. Kick-off meeting

Before launching site activities, the kick-off session associates all the teams involved in the project execution including
the owner of the project, the pool of experts who conceived the rehabilitation design, and the implementation agents.
This meeting aims at:
- Agreeing on the project timeline;
- Identifying the expectations and fears of every partner;
- Validating the projects strategies and the involvement of
every partner in the implementation process;
Kick-start the project with a meeting to assign

responsibilities to the team members and agree
on the projects timeline.
- Defining the next steps for work execution (workflow,workplan and deliverables).
c.3. From bare-land to structured-land
The implementation process of the quarry rehabilitation scheme is detailed in Appendix 2, which thoroughly presents
the workers involved in the execution of each activity, the duration of work, and the detailed quantities for execution.
Appendix 2 served as basis for the analysis provided in this section.
To achieve successful rehabilitation of the HQS, the site requires the installation of a number of structures in order to
shape the suggested design and to convert the existing bare-land into a productive structured-land: stone walls, gabions
walls, merlon-like structures, open excavated ponds, and topsoil addition.
c.3.1. Stone walls construction
Stone walls are a main component of the HQS rehabilitation design (Figure 6). Their construction consumed a great
amount of time and work effort, as walls are generally composed of several parts: foundation, footing, lifts, hearting and
stones.
The foundation is the surface on which the wall is built (Figure 7). Sometimes walls are built over a bed of crushed stone
or a bed of concrete. Walling over the bedrock is one of the best options, as this substrate is the most solid foundation for
construction (case of the HQS). In some cases (such as in the third level of the Lowland where clinker dust have greater
depth variation) walls were built over a foundation of barren soil surface. This method was adopted to avoid the use of
concrete and given that constructed walls were not meant to be large enough to require a solid foundation.
Stone wall construction has been practiced in Chekka-Lebanon
and the Mediterranean region for centuries. Calcareous stones
are locally available in Holcim Lebanon quarries, which further
lowered the implementation expenses. Stone is a hard material
which is not affected by decay. Irregular stones were used
during the construction to give a random shape for the wall.
While selecting stones, it is recommended to pick those with
at least one or more sides roughly angled at 90 to the other
sides, as acute or obtuse angled stones are much harder to
manipulate and would require extra handwork to adjust sides.
Select the stones which have at least one or

more sides roughly angled at 90 to the other
sides; otherwise it would require extra handwork
to adjust sides.
Careful when scheduling stone walls construction
as it is a time consuming task which requires hard
labor effort (i.e. 15-12m of stone walls require 9
workers/day if stones are available onsite and are
already shaped).
Footing is the bottom layer of stones which supports the wall. These rocks are called the foundation stones, since they
are usually the largest in the wall. As shown in figure 5, the walls across the quarry site have only one lift and are topped
with the cope which serves to add additional height and capping to the wall. The gaps between face stones are filled
with small stones generally called hearting. A solid structure is built when gaps between rocks are tightly filled with few
large hearting stones placed individually and not randomly.
Finally, walls have a batter, which is the angle of the face of the wall. This angle is created by the difference of depth and
every wall should have a narrower top than the bottom. The HQS walls are battered by 5 every 1m, as illustrated in figure 8.
30
Figure 7. Stones used for walls construction
31
,
Figure 8. HQS walls features
32
Figure 9. Angle of the walls batter
Batter the wall! And reinforce the wall with an angle of 5 every 1m.
Trees and walls dont fit together, roots are free spirited, they dont like boundaries and they push walls away.
c.3.2. Gabion walls construction
Purchasing gabion baskets is better than manufacturing them from scratch as it is a time consuming job which requires a high
level of expertise.
Figure 10 . Gabion basket purchased from the

supplier for assembly
Gabion baskets can also serve as tools to stabilize eroded areas as well as planting containers.
33
,
To determine the width and height of the gabions to be purchased as well as the number of gabion rows needed, the first
step is to measure the area desired to the area which will host the wall. The baskets are available in the market in different
sizes and styles and only require onsite assembly (Figure 7).
After leveling and smoothing the foundation with a backhoe, gabions can be installed and basket edges wrapped together
with wires to ensure stability.
Stones must be evenly distributed in the basket to minimize voids and provide an aesthetic appearance. Rocks diameters
must be bigger than mesh perforations to prevent stones from washing out through wires mesh.
In the HQS, gabions were used in two sections: the Highland and the Cliffland, and in both cases, baskets had uniform
dimensions [1m*2m*1m (length*width*height)]. The use of gabions in the HQS rehabilitation scheme is meant to stabilize
the added topsoil and prevent its erosion. As shown by the design, gabions baskets were split into two categories: one
where gabions are filled with rocks and backfilled with planted topsoil (in the Cliffland and in a part of the Highland: Figure
8), and one where gabions are filled with topsoil and planted (in a small section of the Highland intended for research
purposes to enable the monitoring of natural recovery of the degraded area without human intervention).
An additional coating of the back face of the baskets with geotextile blankets extending for an additional 1 meter under
the topsoil allows adequate water drainage and prevents soil erosion.
In planted gabion walls, baskets are tailored to be used as containers filled with rocks and topsoil and planted with small
shrubs (Figure 10). The installation of appropriate sized geotextile fabric in the baskets prevents soil percolation and loss
through gabion holes. Planted gabions further improve the aesthetic features of the rehabilitated Highland.
34
Figure 11. Gabion Wall
c.3.3. Substrate structures and embankment structures

Rocks and rock piles are important structural elements of landscape, as they constitute a privileged habitat for many
reptiles, birds and insects species. An embankment structure also called merlon (referred to in the design as impluvium:
Figure 11) is a massive elevated rock structure operating as a defensive obstacle that withstands the impacts of sliding
rocky masses.
The geometric and functional characteristics of such structures widely varies. In the HQS, an existing impluvium already
surrounds the Cliffland area and protects it from soil erosion incidents.
Another form of merlon was introduced in the HQS, referred to in the design as S-structures. Smaller than the existing
impluvium (1.5m height and 4-2.5m length), these structures are made of the same types of rocks used in constructed
walls disposed in a random but reasonable way (Figure 12).
Figure 12. Existing impluvium structure in the Cliffland
35
,
Piles of rocks are useless to humans but are highly valuable for small wild creatures! Keeping these structures is a
must! And if not present try introducing some.
The construction of rock piles isnt usually a time consuming task as it can be mechanically performed with an excavator.
However, although these structures are easy to compile, it remains crucial to respect the order of their different layers.
From inside to outside, the S-structures are made of large rocks overlaid with topsoil and planted with native flora species
(to reduce visual impact).
After several visits to the HQS, it was observed that these rock piles were immediately vegetated. Snakes were also
detected.
c.3.4. Open excavated ponds

Excavation work generally implies the removal of soil and/or bare
rocks from a site to create an open hole or cavity using tools,
machinery and/or explosives. During removal activities, dust should
be controlled and kept to a minimum by spraying the area with water
(Figure 13).
36
Figure 14. Dust
A wide range of equipment can be used for excavation activities. Choosing the right equipment should take into
consideration access restrictions, ground conditions, type and depth of the desired pond and volume of soil/rocks to be
excavated.
Ponds in the HQS were created by digging a pit in a nearly leveled area. Long narrow ponds yield more water than square
ponds. However, rectangular shapes remain the most convenient for excavation equipment.
According to the water-flow model, the capacity of the HQS ponds doesnt exceed 50cm in depth. Capacity estimations
are made to ensure that enough water is stored in the pond to satisfy the intended water uses.
Once excavated, P2 was topped with a layer of compacted clay to improve impermeability and reduce water leakage. Silt
can also be used as a substitute of clay to create an impermeable layer.
Based on the results of the water flow model, which highlighted the areas where water mainly collects in the HQS
after rain events, three ponds were conceived in the Coreland section to collect rain water and reduce runoff. Different
dimensions were required with variable depths according to the outcomes of the water flow model. The ponds took
10 days to be dug and finalized. Located over the bed-rock, P1 was successfully installed and immediately started to
collect water (Figure 14). No clay layer was added to P1. P2 formed a mud-hole as the clay aggregated with the substrate
beneath. Accordingly, it was relocated to a nearby position on a bed-rock substrate where water indeed collected during
a rain event and further enlarged to convey a greater capacity. P3 had to be cancelled and filled with S-structures as it
did not collect water.
Figure 15. Water collected in P1 located in front of the Cliffland
37
,
Stop water leakage! Add an impermeable clay or silt layer to reduce seepage. Always shape your pond
structure to actual water collection capacity.
Topsoil or productive soil, was largely used in the rehabilitation process of the HQS (Figure 15).
In the Lowland, topsoil was added to cover the clinker dust which resulted from previous quarrying activities. In other
subunits, topsoil was added to be later planted in order to accelerate natural recovery processes.
As the site was heavily disturbed, no topsoil was available. Hence, soil was extracted from neighboring undisturbed areas
and thoroughly analyzed to validate its suitability for plantation (Appendix 3).
Adding topsoil over the toxic quarry waste (clinker dust) of the Lowland promotes a nontoxic environment for plants
growth. Yet, since clinker is a very toxic material, it was recommended to add a thick layer of gravels (20cm depth) before
topsoil addition to prevent roots getting in direct contact with clinker. This method was indeed expensive, especially that
gravels had to be transported from a long distance.
Compaction ruins the soil and affects rooting and hinders growth.
c.3.6. Compacted soil

Soil structure consists of organic matter, air holes and particles of sand, silt and clay. A good structure is lost by
compaction, tillage or erosion. Compaction is the consolidation of the soil by an applied force that destroys the structure,
reduces porosity and limits water and air percolation. A compacted soil hinders root penetration and limits areas for seed
germination.
Figure 16. Topsoil added in the HQS subunits
Wet clay soils are highly compatible as clay material form water bonds which act as lubricants that bring together the soil
particles.
Due to the heavy machinery used on the HQS, the clay soil slightly compacted. Therefore, it was important to improve soil
structure through conventional scarifying or plowing of the compacted soil layer in order to create a favorable seedbed
for germination. Plowing to a depth of 30-20 cm was enough to break the aggregates and ruts of the upper soil layer and
prevent invasive weed development. The chisel plowing method is moderately inexpensive, it consists of raking the soil
surface with ripper shanks pulled behind a tractor (Figure 16).
38
c.3.7. Soil amendment

Results of the topsoil analysis exhibited that all soil
samples were composed of heavy clay requiring
effective enrichment prior to plantation in order
to improve soil fertility and functions, create a
suitable environment for plant growth, and reduce
alkalinity. Soil amendment was performed through
the addition of fertilizers and organic matter (the
addition of small stones might help creating a
better structure). The added soil mix was made of
0.5kg/m2 of compost along with 340l/100m2 of
peat moss.
Figure 17. Plowing and ripping compacted topsoil
Figure 18. Organic compost and peat moss amendments added to the topsoil
39
,
c.4. From nursery to site: planting and sowing

Once the sites structural interventions are accomplished, plantation activities can be launched.
This phase concerns the soft, living elements of the implementation which require more care and maintenance until plants
are ready-to-be-transplanted as autonomous individuals.
c.4.1. Plant establishment
Collecting and storing seeds
After the flowering period, the matured fruits of plants selected from the surrounding area of the HQS and from the AFDC
nursery are collected. Once seeds are extracted, they are placed in the shade to dry then stored in the refrigerator in clean
airtight containers or paper bags, labeled with the name of the species and the date. Unlike plastic bags, paper bags
allow the moisture to escape from the seed, which lowers the risks of rotting. The cool temperature slows seeds natural
respiration. Storage period differs depending on the species and the quality of the seed.
Seeds must be planted within the next year or within the two to three coming seasons as their germination capacity
increases with time. Once germination initiates, young seedlings are very vulnerable to environmental stresses (mainly
water, temperature and light availability).
Moisture and warmth are the stored seeds worst enemies!
Storage period differs depending on the species.
Sowing period is scheduled according to the season with the best germination conditions.
Seedlings
Rooted seedlings or nursery-raised plants can be both used for re-vegetation (Figures 18 and 19). These alternatives are
yet more expensive than seed sowing, as well as more time consuming. However, the use of seedlings or plants ensures
higher rates of survival. When raised in nurseries, seedlings are relatively under protected conditions. Once established,
they are gradually exposed to stress to start adapting the future plants to the tough field conditions. This process is called
hardening. Nursery operations must be scheduled before the adequate timing for plantation on field. In the case of the
HQS, this period was planned in the rainy season.
In HQS, all species were either planted as seedlings or directly sown as seeds. Seedlings were grown out of seeds
collected on site or from mother-plants existing in the AFDC nursery in Ramlieh.
Figure 19. Seedlings grown in the AFDC nursery in Ramliyeh
40
Figure 20. Plant seedlings
Plant preparation
Quercus calliprinos seeds were collected during autumn 2012 (October) from stands located in Ramlieh prepared in
AFDC nursery in winter 2012 (December). They were stored in the chiller without any ventilation for a month and a half.
Sowing process initiated in late January 2013 and ended in late February. Pinus brutia seeds were collected and prepared
in November 2012. The seeds geographic origin is Nabeh el Safa. Seeds were then stored in the shed for 4 months and
sowing process was accomplished during two days in early April 2013.
Ceratonia siliqua, Pistacia palaestina, Spartium junceum, Salvia triloba, Origanum syriacum and Thymbra spicata seeds
were collected from areas close to Ramlieh and planted in AFDCs nurseries.
Olea europea, Rhus coriaria, were purchased from several local nurseries.
During the transplanting process, the substrate used in the nursery was cocopeat and peatmoss; a substrate which
reduces weeds development risks. Slow fertilizer release was applied for 6 months before sowing to regulate the pH level.
Yet in nurseries, fertilizers arent needed unless they are used to boost the development of the rooting system and foliage.
Plantation
Lack of rain delayed the first phases of the plantation process in the HQS. Plantations were then initiated in December
2013. The entire plantation of a total number of 1533 seedlings took approximately 8 days (6 hours and 5 workers per
day) (Appendix 4).
The seedlings plantation followed the steps hereafter:
- All the equipment and plants needed in the plantation process were prepared and made easily reachable to the
workers.
- Plantation holes were prepared: 40*40*40cm, 5 liters of peat moss and 15g/plant of slow fertilizer release.
- Added material (peat moss and fertilizer) were then well mixed with soil until the medium is homogenized.
- The seedlings were placed in the plantation holes, which were then filled with soil. The soil must be firm around the
seedling to make sure that the roots are fully covered with topsoil.
No mulching was needed during the HQS rehabilitation. Optional additions of mats for weed control and shelters against
grazing can be performed. Tall plants such as Olea europea required stacking during the first year (Figures 20 and 21).
41
,
Figure 21. Stacking applied for Olea

While planting the HQS minor challenges occurred:
- The Olea europea trees were bought in metal containers, so it was a time consuming process to remove containers
before plantation.
- Lack of rain delayed the plantation process which required further irrigation of the already planted seedlings.
After re-vegetating the HQS, reducing weed competition was necessary. Hence, manual plowing was applied once all the
plants were established to remove all the weeds around the stand.
A formal launching of the plantation was held in the rehabilitated site in Chekka. The representatives of each partner
inaugurated the plantation by planting an Olea europea tree and a Quercus calliprinos tree in the Lowland section. The
ceremony was attended by all the stakeholders. The partners stressed on the fact that collective effort is the key to
achieving successful results (Figure 22).
Sowing
As prepared by the AFDC team, team, the seeds were weed free and good quality. Certification guarantees that the seeds
have the potential to have a well performance on field.
Complying with the suggestions of the rehabilitation design, seeding was performed in patches not over the whole plots.
For each section of the HQS the seed quantity was measured separately in grams, then seeds of all the added species
were mixed together with peat moss. The seeded patches were delineated by wood sticks to mark and avoid future
plowing. Topsoil was raked before sowing to destroy existing weeds and loosen and soften the compacted surface.
Seeds were randomly manually spread over the topsoil, and then lightly covered with soil at a preset depth using a
spading fork to insure good soil/seed contact (Figure 23).
Seeds need a moist soil to germinate. Hence, watering is needed in the first few months.
42
Figure 22. Steps to complete seedlings plantation
43
,
Figure 23. Partners contribution in plantation
Figure 24. Seed spreading onsite
44
c.5. Supervising and documenting

Supervision is a process which ensures that the work is being accurately executed by the team with respect to the
project timeline. The supervision party takes responsibility of following-up on the implementation process and reporting/
coordinating with the different partners in case of complications, punctual problems, issues, or risks, where the
implementation schedule can be eventually readapted and corrective actions suggested by the different teams.
Documentation consists of a step by step reporting of all undertaken activities milestones, progress, constraints, etc.
Documenting works evolution along with all the technical details related to actual execution enables all partners to learn
from the experience and identify challenges to address in future similar initiatives.
Supervision and documentation help identifying the obstacles affecting the project implementation such as financial
constraints, technical limitations, and management difficulties. However, it also highlights partners commitment and
beneficiaries involvement in the whole process and detects gaps.
Supervision and documentation highlight successes, challenges and lessons to be learned.
c.6. Coping with reality and adjusting the design

After careful planning and designing of the project, unexpected complications can occur during the implementation
phase. These types of situations are very common, as one cannot predict unforeseen constraints unless the action is in
the execution process. In such cases, flexibility is the answer. Readapting the proposed technical design to cope with
reality is the best solution to overcome such circumstances provided that adaptive measures still comply with the overall
set objectives and defined concepts. Appropriate alternative interventions (fitting in the defined project budget envelop)
can be suggested to address the technical constraints and ensure a successful flow of the project. Readapting the
workplan and the previously planned interventions might however affect the implementation process.
During the HQS rehabilitation process, the contractor was flexible enough to abide by all the changes suggested in the
design.
Several changes were made to the original design:
Unexpected technical complications occur! Coping with reality and readapting the design is the only way
out. Its all about being flexible and creative! After all, restoration is the art of the possible
- The walls of the Lowland section were adapted to the existing topography. Four walls amongst which one was
double leveled were thus built instead of three. This adjustment was made due to the instability of the clinker dust
deposited over this area. Between the two additional walls a small road was left for small trucks to access the area
(Figure 24).
- Few adjustments were done in the Highland section which was initially devided into two parts: one with unplanted
gabions and another with planted gabions. The adjustment was made between these two sections due to a leveling
problem, as a deep sector was left as a physical split between the two parts. This amendment resulted in the
use of a reduced number of gabion baskets and the additional construction of a stone wall and another gabion wall
to close both sections and avoid substrate loss (Figure 25).
- The Coreland adjustment was based on a trial and error experiment. The first rain events were considered as the
base of the changes made to this section.
45
,
* Pond (P3) did not succeed to collect rain water. Therefore, partners decided to cover this pond with S-structures.
* Pond (P2) collected rain water but it had impermeability problems. P2 formed a mud-hole as the clay aggregated
with the substrate beneath. Accordingly, it was relocated to a nearby position on a bed-rock substrate where
water was collected during a rain event and further enlarged to convey a greater capacity.
- The last changes tackled plantations. As presented before, the recommended method of plantation was the creation
of patches with masses of plants. However, during execution, workers only created unequally linear aspects with the
vegetation (Figure 26).
Figure 25. Lowland adjustment, double wall constructed over two levels
46
Figure 26. Gap in Highland section
Figure 27. Plantation pattern in the Lowland
47
,
c.7. Maintenance
Maintenance operations promote maximum performance of the site and increase the chances of its endurance. They
include frequent routine actions which ensure the proper establishment of the project elements in order to prevent
eventual failures. This activity, through which broken material is replaced, adjusted or repaired to save its intended
functional conditions, tests the sustainability of the projects units.
Maintenance operations promote maximum performance of the site and increase the chances of its endurance. They
include frequent routine actions which ensure the proper establishment of the project elements in order to prevent
eventual failures. This activity, through which broken materials are replaced, adjusted or repaired to save their intended
functional conditions, tests the sustainability of the projects units.
Two main types of maintenance can be performed: preventive maintenance
(which prevents the failure of equipment); and corrective maintenance (when
equipment fails and requires elimination and replacement).
A successful project doesnt

happen by itself, it needs
dedication, motivation,
perseverance and maintenance.
d. Step 4: Monitoring the rehabilitation

Monitoring activities consist of the systematic collection of data enabling the follow-up of the restoration progress according
to the targeted criteria and the performance standards which indicate that ecological objectives were achieved. Collected
data over a minimum period of 5 to 20 years are parameters used to provide general indicators which support assessing
the evolution of the landscape, the ecosystems, the communities, the populations and the species. These criteria help in
understanding the ongoing dynamics, determine whether the system is able to autonomously sustain and self-regulate itself,
and suggest remedial actions in case dynamics showed regressive trajectories directing the site away from the conceived
rehabilitation scheme.
Hence, evaluating the success of the restoration operations should be taken into
account at every stage of the development through the definition of standards and
indicators of success such as the presence of certain species or the reinstatement
of particular processes.
Projects dont have a middle or

an end anymore, they only have
a beginning that never stops
beginning..
d.1. Fauna indicators

Fauna surveys assess the number and types of species frequenting the site after rehabilitation.
Comparing these surveys to those performed before the rehabilitation processes took place, highlights the impact of
restoration interventions in reinstating life into the site through the creation of privileged environments and microhabitats
for species.
Fauna indicators include among other the detection of:
* Carnivores: the only carnivorous species observed is the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) and other carnivore species were
reported by the locals. Monitoring programs will inspect whether the population of this species is increasing and will
also determine if individuals are frequenting the site as it matures and heals.
* Rodents: which can highly benefit from the upper soil layers of the added topsoil in the various parts of the quarry.
Close monitoring and detection of the lesser mole rat specie (Spalax ehrinbergi) can be a strong evidence of sites
healing as this species used to exist onsite prior to quarrying activities.
* Birds: monitoring should take into consideration bird species frequenting the site, especially those using it for
breeding or nesting as the site matures.
* Reptiles: species benefiting from the ecological restoration will use the soil, rocks, and brush cover as habitats. Their
presence onsite is a good indicator of rehabilitation success.
48
d.2. Flora indicators

Few indicators can be suggested to assess the flora status onsite after rehabilitation:
* Canopy cover: it is an indirect indicator to be evaluated after 6 ,3 and 10 years (if possible) to assess the success
of the vegetation cover establishment.
* Floristic composition: assess after 6 ,3 and 10 years (if possible) the evolution of species composition while
comparing the floristic composition onsite to that of the surrounding environment in order to determine whether
the restoration model was properly designed. This indicator highlights the populations progression, regression or
stability, and assesses species loss in the quarry.
* Vertical and horizontal vegetation structure: assessment of the vegetation structure during the first 10 years after the
restoration: vertically (herbaceous strata, shrubs and trees) and horizontally (between plants groups in the site). This
criterion highlights the diversity of established habitats for fauna in the restored quarry.
* Landscape integration with surrounding areas.
* Representativeness: assess whether the established vegetation is comparable to the mature ecosystems in
surrounding areas.
Monitoring activities will also highlight the need to replace plants in case of low survival rates of planted species.
Therefore, plants will be closely monitored during the first couple of months to avoid water stress and suggest
supplemental irrigation if deemed needed.
d.3. Hydrology indicators
Monitoring the functioning of the sites hydrological regime and the characteristics of the hydro-morphological processes
established after the restoration is an important aspect to address in the HQS. In this regard, a couple of criteria/indicators
can be assessed:
* Status of the natural and artificial drainage network;
* Ecological connection/sealing/functioning of the ponds;
* Stream profile: monitoring the modifications in the stream and its aquatic integrity in the surrounding area;
* Water quality: monitoring this factor by collecting water samples and focusing on chemical (oxygen, nutrients and
metals) and physical parameters (pH and temperature) of the integrated ponds is a must. Hydrology monitoring
programs can also identify the source of pollution if present;
* Aquatic habitat quality: habitat evaluation determines the potential of the ponds to sustain aquatically healthy
systems, and might include the identification of factors which affect or improve the establishment of the aquatic
biodiversity (sediment embedment, water stability, riparian habitats, etc.).
49
III. CONCLUSION AND

LESSONS LEARNED
III. CONCLUSION AND LESSONS LEARNED
III. Conclusion and Lessons learned
One of the pioneer initiatives in Lebanon and the Mediterranean, the Holcim experience has proven the success of adopting a
scientific-based approach for quarry rehabilitation, integrating both social and ecological aspects. Throughout the rehabilitation
process, several challenges and constraints were confronted. Coping with these realities is a must to achieve a successful
rehabilitation scheme.
Many lessons arise from this experience. Learning from these lessons will definitely facilitate the orientation for future similar
rehabilitation initiatives in Lebanon and the Mediterranean.
The main purpose of a rehabilitation process is to reduce the gap between what existed before the perturbation (initial
state) and the post-rehabilitation status. It is mandatory to either perform exhaustive biodiversity assessments before any
activity is planned on a site or (in case this is impossible), to perform these assessments in neighboring similar ecosystems.
It is important to consider any restoration intervention as a medical transplant on a degraded ecosystem. The main
challenge resides in succeeding at integrating this transplant. They key to success is to therefore identify, within the
biodiversity assessments, key species to serve as indicator targets for the restoration. The more key indicator species to
orient the rehabilitation design the more the chances of success are.
The key step to ensure the achievement of a self-sustained restored ecosystem supporting clear onsite ecological functions
and efficiently connected to neighboring ecosystems is to escort the rehabilitation process far beyond the intervention
period. Clear successful results can only be observed after 4 to 5 years in Mediterranean environment, and monitoring this
progress is a key component of evaluating the success.
Keeping an emergency budget in the planning in order to be able to adapt to sudden difficulties is crucial.
Flexibility in implementation is key to success. Nothing is perfect. Sometimes, actual onsite rehabilitation might not
achieve to execute the conceived design per se. Being flexible and creative helps better adapting/coping with constraints.
Setting clear and concise objectives and goals from the beginning of the project, respecting the project timeline and in
case of complications, adapting to reality while always considering time priorities are basic elements to achieve a successful
implementation.
Team collaboration, dedication and constant follow-up are key to efficient achievements.
52
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Suding, K.N., Gross, K.L. and Houseman, G.R. 2004. Alternative states and positive feedbacks in restoration ecology. Trends in
Ecology and Evolution, 53-46 :)1(19.
Tilman D. and Pacala, S. 1993. The maintenance of species richness in plant communities. In: Rickefs RE, Schluter D (eds)
Species diversity in ecological communities: historical and geographical perspectives. University of Chicago Press, Chicago,
pp. 15-13
Ward, J.P. and Anderson, S. H. 1988. Influences of cliffs on Wildlife communities in Southcentral Wyoming. Journal of Wildlife
Management, 8-673 :52.
Website Resources
http://www.quarry-plant.net/articles/HistoryOfQuarrying.htm
http://www.ehow.com/about_6505724_environmental-problems-limestone-quarries.html
http://www.aqa.org.nz/about-us/quarrying/
http://test.moe.gov.lb/Documents/SOER20%Chap20%202%reduced.pdf
55
56
Highland
Cliff-land
Core-land
Low-land
Mobilization and Site

Preparation
Activity
I M P L E M E N T A T I O N
21-Jul
22-Aug
3. Construct Gabion walls
3. Construct unplanted gabion wall
4. Place geotextile and topsoil behind unplanted gabions
23-Sep
29-Sep
2. Construct planted gabion wall
1. Level the base for the gabion baskets
4. Add topsoil behind Gabions
16-Aug
2. Establish impluvium like aspect of the landform
1. Level the base for the gabion baskets
6. Construct merlon-like structures
4-Aug
19-Jul
8-Jul
10-Jun
20-May
7-May
4. Establish connecting canals
5. Add topsoil around pond
CNRS
Date of the visit
3. Ensure waterflows as per design
2. Place 10cm layer of clay + compaction
1. Establish ponds
6. Place 80cm + 100cm layer of topsoil+strip of rocks
5. Place a 20cm layer of gravel
4. Construction of the 3rd wall
3. Construct of the 2nd wall
2. Construct of the 1st wall
1. Level the base of the 3 stone walls
9. Remove any obstacles from work areas
8. Prepare stock areas
7. Prepare internal access roads
6. Mobilize needed equipment
5. Define and delimitate work sub-zones
4. Install access and safety signage
2. Delimitate overall site boundaries
1. Site visit and safety kickoff meeting
Sub-activity
1 :
S C H E D U L E
15-Oct
3-Sep
23-Jul
11-Jun
Report
First week of March
AFDC
This workplan displays the dates of the field visits performed by the three partners to the HQS
A P P E N D I X
30-May
Report
5-Sep
25-Jul
14-Jun
7-May
IUCN
APPENDIX 1: IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE
Maintenance visit for weeding and inspection of growth
Maintenance visit for growth and mortality inspection. This visit

is weather dependent, i.e. if rain stopped early in the season, the
visit will be scheduled earlier
Maintenance visit for growth and mortality inspection
Maintenance visit
Maintenance visit
Planting and species distribution per subunit will be done

according to the already agreed upon design.
Rest-land
Cliff-land
High-land
Core-land
Low-land
Planting of subunits:
Maintenance visit
Planting
Pre-planting site visit assessment
Soil preparation
Description
Activity
Site visit
Mid June
Late April 2014
First week of March 2014
12-Nov
7-Nov
24-Jun
1 April - 13
May 2014
18-Mar
7-Jan
26-Nov
Mid June
First week of March
1-14 Nov.
15 -Oct.
30-Jun
30-Nov.
30-Oct
17-May
20-May
28 - nov.
57
58
Site Preparation
List of
Subsection
+ furniture
+water tank +
generator+
light tower
Pick-up
Removal of
obstacles
Loader + Truck
Loader
Preparation of
stock areas
Truck, crane and

wheel loader
Loader
0.9
Access road
preparation
Furn +
electricity, etc.)
Mobilization of
equipment
Delineate work
subzone
0.3
Start
16-May
14-May
12-May
10-May
5-May
0.8
Depth
17-May
15-May
13-May
13-May
6-May
4-May
2-May
End
Provided
Schedule
Install signage
Length
As per
execution
Equipment and
Machinery
S H E E T
3-May
Height
As per
design
Materiel
I M P L E M E N T A T I O N
Delineate the
site boundaries
Depth
As per execution
Dimension
T E C H N I C A L
1-May
Height Length
As per design
2 :
Site visit
Subunits
A P P E N D I X
1 day
2 days
2 days
4days
2 days
2 days
period
Eng +
worker
1 driver 1
worker
Eng + 2
workers
1 Electrician
1 Plumber
3 Workers
1 Site
engineer
3 Workers
1 Topographer 1
Worker
2 workers
2 workers
3 workers
6 workers
3 workers
2 workers
Nb. of workers
W O R K )
Worker title
( H A R D
Loader + truck
Loader work
Loader work
1 bought and
second
existed
+Electric
connection
5 signs/day
1. 1st day :
reference
points (30
minutes)
2. 2nd day :
locating the
points onsite
APPENDIX 2: TECHNICAL IMPLEMENTATION SHEET (HARD WORK)
Lowland
300 m
1.25 m
1.25 m
1.25 m
Construction of
1st wall
Construction of
2nd wall
Construction of
3d wall
1m
1381 m3
8351.7 m3
Place topsoil
and strip of
rocks
0.8 m
0.2 m
85 m
112 m
112 m
112 m
72 m
300 m
270 m3
9470 m3
1826 m3
0.80 m
Construction of
6th wall
Place gravel
layer
2.2 m
Construction of
5th wall
2m
2m
0.45 m
0.45 m 1.25 m
0.45 m
Construction of
4th wall
112 m
72 m
165 m3
Rocks needed
for construction
Level the base

of the 3 walls
0.2m
0.75 m
0.75 m
0.75 m
0.75 m
0.60 m
0.80 m
Calcisol +
Organic
matter
Rock
Stone
Rock
Stone
Rock
Stone
Rock
Stone
Rock
Stone
Rock
Stone
Clay soil +
amendments
Crushed
limestone
Rocks
22-Jun
16-Jun
Loader, Truck,
Crusher,
Grader
Trucks, Loader
15-Sep
10-Jun
10-Jun
10-Jun
4-Jun
24-May
18-May
Excavator + Truck
+ Loader
Excavator + Truck
+ Loader
Excavator + Truck
+ Loader
Excavator + Truck
+ Loader
Excavator + Truck
+ Loader
Excavator + Truck
+ Loader
Excavator
30-Jul
21-Jun
20-Sep
15-Jun
15-Jun
15-Jun
9-Jun
3-Jun
23-May
35 - 40
days
5-6 days
5-6 days
5-6 days
5-6 days
5-6 days
5-6 days
9-10 days
5 days
3 Drivers 2
workers
2 Drivers 1
Worker
2 Masons
Teams
3 Masons
Teams
3 Masons
Teams
3 Masons
Teams
2 Masons
Teams
3 Masons
Teams
1 Driver 1
worker
5 workers
3 workers
9 workers
18 workers
18 workers
18 workers
9 workers
18 workers
2 workers
12-15 trucks /
day
12 - 15 trucks /
day
12-15 m / day
20-25 m / day
20-25 m / day
20-25 m / day
12-15 m / day
30-35 m / day
59
60
Core-land
1
0.25
0.4
0.5
0.6
Calcisol +
Organic
matter
Construct
merlon-like
structures
Add topsoil
around pond
1785 m3
1834 m3
Rocks
(195m3 )
+ Gravel
(39m3 )
Calcisol
(143m3)
and
organic
matter
(15.6kg )
Calcisol +
Organic
matter
Clay
8-Jul
Excavator+Truck
+Loader
Small Loader/
JCB
Trucks + Loader
Excavator
16-Jul
8-Jul
Excavator+Truck
+Loader
Compactor
8-Jul
Excavator+Truck
+Loader
4-Aug
29-Jul
21-Jul
75
Establish
connecting
Cannals
0.1 m
19-Jul
0.1 m
0.5 m
0.5 m
1-May
Ensure
waterflows as
per design
1m
35 m
Pond 3
95 m
62 m
Pond 2
Place impermeable layer +

compaction
35 m
Pond 1
Ponds
deliniation
11-Aug
3-Aug
28-Jul
20-Jul
18-Jul
15-Jul
15-Jul
15-Jul
2-May
7 - 8 days
7 days
8 days
3 days
7 days
7 days
7 days
1 day
3 Drivers + 3
worker
2 Drivers + 1
worker
1 Driver
1 driver 1
worker
1 driver 1
worker
1 driver 1
worker
Topographer
6 workers
3 workers
1 worker
4 workers
2 workers
2 workers
2 workers
1 worker
APPENDIX 2: TECHNICAL IMPLEMENTATION SHEET (HARD WORK)
RestLand
HighLand
Cliff-Land
3.6 m
Geotextile
behind
unplanted
gabions
0.5 m
Concrete
0.6 m
Banches
2m
Rocks +
concrete
1.15 m
2.11 m
2125 m3
165 m
1.4 m
4 m3
165
Toilets
implementation
1m
2.8 m
Rocks
2346.75 m3
1.4 m
2 m3
2m
Cover the
housing facility
with rocks
Topsoil behind
unplanted
gabions
2.8 m
Coconut
blancket
Topsoil in the
planted
Gabions
82 m
Calcisol
and
organic
matter
Clay soil +
amendments
Clay soil +
amendments
Loader
Loader
Truck + loader
Loader
Manual
Manual
Manual
Loader
1m
18
Calcisol
and
organic
matter
Rocks + Gravel
+ Clay soil +
amendment
Gabion
structure +
limestone
rocks
Unplanted
Gabion Wall
Metal
structure +
Rocks
Rocks
(195 m3 ) +
Gravel
(39 m3 )
Calcisol
existing
(143 m3)
and
organic
matter
(15.6 kg )
Loader
2m
5560 m3
existing
89
1m
82 m
existing
Planted Gabion
Wall
5.460 m3
4m
2m
Small Loader/
JCB
1.5 m
82 m
Base of Gabion
Baskets leveling
Topsoil behind
Gabions
Merlon like
structures
construction
1m
Small Loader/
JCB
Impluvium
structure
Place the
gabion Walls
Small Loader/
JCB
Level the base

for gabion
basket
10-Oct
7-Oct
5-Oct
2-Oct
5-Sep
29-Aug
25-Aug
7-Sep
22-Aug
16-Aug
12-Aug
30-Oct
9-Oct
6-Oct
4-Oct
1-Oct
4-Sep
28-Aug
2-Oct
6-Sep
21-Aug
15-Aug
20 days
2 days
1 days
2 days
25 - 27
days
4- 5 days
3 -4 days
25 - 27
days
existing
14 - 15
days
4- 5 days
3 -4 days
1 Driver 1
worker
2 workers
4 workers
5 workers
7 workers
7 workers
1 Driver
3 Drivers 3
workers
3 Drivers + 3
worker
1 Driver
1 Driver
2 workers
2 workers
4 workers
5 workers
7 workers
7 workers
1 worker
6 workers
5-6 worker /
day
1 worker
1 worker
4-5 trucks / day
70 - 80 m / day
5-6 Gabions /
day
3-4 Gabions /
day
10-12 trucks /
day
Clean ups only
5-6 Gabion /
day
61
APPENDIX 3: TOPSOIL ANALYSIS
Appendix 3: Topsoil analysis
62
63
APPENDIX 4: TECHNICAL PLANTATION SHEET
64
Seed
preparation
Seedbed
and sowing
preparation
Treatment
stratification,
scarification)
Seed
storage
Natural air
cirulation
Natural air
circulation
Row
per bed
12,000
seeds
Quantity
of seeds
treated
Seedbed
dimensions
2 to 4
in chiller +2
+4 (4
weeks)
Temperature
of treatment
10000
seeds
24 h
chiller
cold
stratification
48 h
soaking in
running
water
Soaking in
water: period
Width
Dry
conditions
Dry
conditions
3 months
around 85
from 5-25
from 5 -25
4 months
from 2 to 4
Storage
shed
Storage
shed
15000
2 to 4
24 h
chiller
cold
stratification
4 months
none
600
2 to 4
24 h
Chiller
cold
stratification
1 year and
4
months
natural air
circulation
dry
conditions
from 5 - 25
storage
shed
drying and
removal
from
pods
Removal of
pulp under
running
water
Drying
of cones
None
chiller
Ramlieh
Ammatour
Nabe3
l Safa
Sep-11
Aug-11
Spartium
junceum
Chouaifet
September
through
October
2012
not
successful
Calicotome
villosa
Oct-12
Pistacia
palaestina
Tamarix
sp.
400
2 to 4
24 h
200
6 months
natural air
circulation
natural air
circulation
one year
and 4
months
dry
conditions
from 5-25
storage
shed
Removal of
twigs
and
leaves
Ramlieh
August
Oreganum
syriacum
dry
conditions
from 5-25
storage
shed
Seperation
through
water
Damour
June
Salvia
triloba
S H E E T
Nov-12
Nov-12
Pinus brutia
P L A N T A T I O N
Mar-13
Nov-12
Ceratonia
siliqua
T E C H N I C A L
in nursery
No
treatment
1.5 months
None
around 85
Relative
humidity
Ventillation
2+ - 4+
Temperature
chiller
Olea
europea
Purchased
Location of
treatment
Type
of treatment
Time
of storage
before
sowing
Condition
of storage
Location
of storage
cleaning
and
floating
Seed
extraction
Dec-12
Ramlieh
Oct-12
Collected
Prepared in
nurseries
Seed
geographic
origin
Seed
supplier
Purchased
Quercus
calliprinos
4 :
Rhus
coriaria
Ficus
carica
Purchased
A P P E N D I X
40 x 25
styrofoam
boxes
200
one year
and 4
months
natural air
circulation
dry
conditions
from 5-25
storage
shed
Removal of
twigs
and
leaves
Ramlieh
JulyAugust
Thymbra
spicata
65
Sowing
66
To
Type
60%
first emergence after 25

days
none
Period from
seedling (or
seed) to
emergence
Period to
transfer to
another pot
38 cm x 30 cm x 28 c
Dimensions
650 cc containers
Type
20 cells per container/172

seedlings per m sq.
Powdery mildew, insect

attack
Purpose
Density
Fungicide once, insecticide

once
Type
cocopeat + peatmoss
varies, on average 4 days
none
sprinkler
Machine type
Frequency
1 worker
Nbr. of
workers or
machines
Germination %
Pots and
trays
Pesticides
Type of soil
used +
compost
Irrigation
1 day
Work load
Palatable to rodents
Challenges
Sowing machines or
manually
20%
perlite
0.5 cm
Type
Depth
max 2 cm
31/1/2013
27/2/2013
From
Losses of
seeds
Mulch
Sowing
depth
Sowing
date
none
none
first
emergence
after 20
days
first
emergence
after 15
days
38 x 30cm
35 cm x60
cm
75%
20 cells per
container
91 cells
per
container
45%
D27 (475
ml)
None
cocopeat +
peatmoss
130 cc
styrofoam
None
cocopeat
+
peatmoss
varies, on
average 4
days
varies, on
average
every 3
days
none
none
3 workers
sprinkler
1 worker
1 day
1 day
none
none
birds and
rodents
like the
seeds
removing
broken
seeds
sprinkler
30%
20%
50%
perlite
none
first
emergence
after 3
weeks
65%
43x31 cm
50 cells per
container
300 cc
None
cocopeat +
peatmoss
varies, on
average 4
days
sprinkler
1 day
0.5 cm
perlite
0.5 cm
perlite
max 1 cm
max 1 cm
0.5 cm
surface
sowing
12-Apr
1-May-13
3-Mar
10-Apr
25-Apr-13
none
first
emergence
after one
week
90%
43 x 31 cm
none
first
emergence
after 3
weeks
first
emergence
after
one
week
none
50%
43 x 31 cm
80%
43 x 31
cm
50 cells
50 cells per
per
containcontainer
er
50 cells
per
container
300 cc
None
cocopeat +
peatmoss
varies, on
average
4 days
sprinkler
none
1 worker
1 day
cleaning
the
debris
from the
seeds
0.5 cm
perlite
surface
sowing
15-May
300 cc
None
cocopeat
+
peatmoss
varies, on
average
4 days
sprinkler
none
1 worker
1 day
none
0.5 cm
perlite
surface
sowing
15-May
300 cc
None
cocopeat
+
peatmoss
varies, on
average
4 days
sprinkler
none
1 worker
1 day
none
10%
0.5 cm
perlite
0.5 cm
2-Mar
none
first
emergence
after 3
weeks
50%
43 x 31 cm
50 cells
per
container
300 cc
None
cocopeat
+
peatmoss
varies, on
average
4 days
sprinkler
none
1 worker
1 day
cleaning
the
debris
from the
seeds
0.5 cm
perlite
surface
sowing
20-Apr
Purchased
Purchased
Pesticides
Weeding
(the use of
cocopeat
and peat
moss
greatly
reduces
weed
problems
Fertilisation
Herbicide
used
Damping off, mildew,

insect attack
roots for damping off,

mildew on leaves, insects
on leaves and some on
seeds
seed treatment in insecticides and fungicides
Insecti and Fungi/cides
preventive and curative
Before sowing and

whenever symptoms
appear
Stage of
species
attacked
(seed,
germination,
roots)
Method of
control
(fumigation,
seed
treatment,
drench or
spray)
Type of
pesticide
Purpose
(preventive)
Time of the
year
Purpose
Amount
2 applications
Worker
Diseases
Handweeding
Application
timing
(pre-seeding)
Purpose of
application
Type of
fertilizer
Amount
applied
one
permanent
and two seasonal
None
so far
In nursery
Time of
application
Slow
release
(6 months)
Before
sowing
one
permanent
and two
seasonal
one
permanent
and two
seasonal
none,
limited
attack
leaves
insect
foraging
None
so far
none
so far
none
so far
None
so far
slow
release
(6 months)
slow
release
(6 months)
None
None
so far
one
permanent
and two
seasonal
none
so far
slow release
(6 months)
None
one
permanent
and two
seasonal
none
so far
slow
release
(6 months)
none
so far
slow
release
(6 months)
None
None
one
one
permanent
permanent
and two
and two
seasonseasonal
al
none
so far
slow
release
(6 months)
None
one
permanent
and two
seasonal
none
so far
slow
release
(6 months)
67
Purchased
Purchased
Highland
Section
Quantities
Lowland
Coreland
Cliffland
None
Transplanting
62
149
149
As per design
As per
execution
62
As per
execution
As per
execution
62
As per design
62
31
As per
execution
As per design
31
As per design
11 months
Greenhouse
Frost
protection
Period
Sprayers
Photos
Shears
Pruning
slow release
mixes
Fertilization
Herbicide
and
insecticide
spraying
manual
sprinklers
Sowing
chiller
Seed
storage and
handling
irrigation
None
From
seeding to
plantation
Equipment
68
Seed
processing
Purchased
149
149
30
30
52
52
27
27
74
74
10
10
20
20
7 months
None
None
17
17
62
62
22
22
8 months
165
185
101
52
40
103
62
60
39
9 months
slow release
mixes
slow
release
mixes
40
60
20
40
149
149
73
63
83
83
32
29
9 months
None
slow
release
mixes
sprinklers
manual
manual
sprinklers
manual
sprinklers
chiller
chiller
chiller
none
sieves
none
60
20
40
40
7 months
None
slow
release
mixes
sprinklers
manual
chiller
none
60
20
40
40
7 months
None
slow
release
mixes
sprinklers
manual
chiller
none
Purchased
10
10
30
10
20
20
8 months
Hand
picking
slow
release
mixes
sprinklers
manual
chiller
none
INTERNATIONAL UNION
FOR CONSERVATION OF NATURE
Hasan Baker Al Azazi St. #20
Sweifiyeh - Amman - Jordan
T. +962 6 554 6912 /3/4
F. +962 6 554 6915
M.+962 777 888 377
westasia@iucn.org

Holcim Quarry Rehab Experience

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Mediterranean Quarry

INTERNATIONAL UNION FOR CONSERVATION OF NATURE

This report was prepared by

Dr. Carla Khater

Eng. Mufleh Al-Alaween

Eng. Elias Chnais

Edited by: Rita El-Hajj

IUCN, Gland, Switzerland

2015 International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources

CNRS-L/AFDC/IUCN/Holcim. 2014. Mediterranean Quarry Rehabilitation Manual: Learn The

Magic Line, Jordan

Magic Line, Jordan

Regional Office for West Asia

I. Quarry Rehabilitation: an imPOSSIBLE mission ......................................................................................................................8

Figure 1 . Geographical location of the Holcim quarry site in Chekka

Quarry Rehabilitation Directive

International Union for Conservation of Nature

Regional Office for West Asia

National Council for Scientific Research

Association for Forest Development and Conservation

Abou-Chacra and Frangieh Contracting

Instituto de Defesa Agropecuria e Florestal do ES

Holcim Quarry Site

Digital Elevation Model

Corporate Social Responsibility

I. QUARRY REHABILITATION: AN imPOSSIBLE MISSION

I. Quarry Rehabilitation: an imPOSSIBLE mission

a. Importance and impacts of quarries

Mediterranean Quarry Rehabilitation Manual

b. Quarries: a promising scar

I. QUARRY REHABILITATION: AN imPOSSIBLE MISSION

Briefly, restoration/rehabilitation initiatives aim at:

c. Holcim Lebanon: an experimental platform

Mediterranean Quarry Rehabilitation Manual

II. THE CHEKKA QUARRY:

II. The Chekka quarry: following Holcim Lebanons steps

1. The Chekka sketch

Figure 1. Geographical location of the Holcim quarry site in Chekka

Mediterranean Quarry Rehabilitation Manual

Figure 2. HQS Environmental Damages

2. The rehabilitation process

Set realistic objectives in view of the sites status and environment.

3. From scratch to closure

Figure 3. The four key steps from scratch to monitoring

Mediterranean Quarry Rehabilitation Manual

Biodiversity assessments performed before

In Mediterranean environments such as

a.2. Geology and Hydrology assessments

Geology and Hydrology assessments are crucial

Stakeholders are the persons directly or indirectly:

Mediterranean Quarry Rehabilitation Manual

Objectives and techniques of the design

Site surroundings specificities

b. Step 2: From perception to conception

The rehabilitation objectives guide the projects

The biodiversity assessment highlighted the major ecological

Mediterranean Quarry Rehabilitation Manual

b.2.2. Ecological continuities

Integrating sustainability into the project will

b.2.4. Landscape context

b.2.5. Site features

In the HQS, several cliffs bearing many cervices resulting

Water availability onsite was proven to be an important factor

Water is an important component to consider